Attractions & nature
Hot Springs in Taiwan
Taiwan sits on an active volcanic line, and one of the gifts of that is excellent hot springs. Unlike Japan, here it’s cheap, accessible, and often a short train ride from the city. After a day of walking, nothing beats a hot soak.
Beitou: the one closest to Taipei
Beitou is the hot-springs neighbourhood of Taipei, one MRT ride away (red line, change at Xinbeitou). It has public baths for a few dozen shekels, private bathhouses, and spa hotels. You can also visit the hot-spring museum and the steaming Thermal Valley.
Beyond Taipei
Jiaoxi in Yilan County, about an hour from Taipei, is a convenient spring town with free foot baths in the street. Guanziling in the south offers a rare mud spring. In the mountains, wild natural springs reward anyone willing to walk to them.
When and how
Hot springs are especially pleasant in winter and on cool autumn evenings. Bring a towel (or rent one on site), and keep the most important rule: shower thoroughly before entering the water.
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Frequently asked questions
Where are the closest hot springs to Taipei?
In Beitou, a neighbourhood in northern Taipei one MRT ride away (red line, change at Xinbeitou). There are public baths and private bathhouses.
How much does a hot spring cost in Taiwan?
A public bath in Beitou costs just a few dozen shekels. A private room or entry to a spa hotel is pricier, but still reasonable compared to Japan.
What's the etiquette at a hot spring?
At traditional baths you soak without a swimsuit and by gender separation, and you shower before entering. At complexes that allow swimsuits, you wear one. Always shower first.
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